Our story is one of dedication, unity, and a commitment to supporting Indigenous voices and vision
The Biminaawzogin Regional Aboriginal Women’s Circle (BRAWC) was formed in the year 2000 and incorporated in 2006. BRAWC initially served as a regional planning and service delivery body for Indigenous women in Simcoe County. Supplementary letters patent was approved in 2013 to reflect our transitional housing program. BRAWC’s project management skills have excelled and we have established ourselves in the community as a very capable organization taking major steps to support the social, cultural and economic well-being of Indigenous people.
BRAWC’s Circle of Directors is legally responsible for the governance of the organization. Within that mandate is the expectation that the board develops, implements and monitors policies that allows the organization to carry out its work. The Executive Director is responsible for the day to day operations of BRAWC. BRAWC has solely relied on annual grants since our inception.
The Circle of Directors plays a crucial role in ensuring that every decision made is in alignment with our core values and the needs of our communities. Each director brings invaluable insight and experience, ensuring that BRAWC remains community-driven, with a focus on fostering long-term, sustainable growth.
The Heart of Our Work
“Following the teachings of our ancestors we will encourage and support Indigenous women, families, communities and organizations working together as a unified voice to empower and promote the basic right to healthy living and safe housing”
Our Story Through Time
2000: Inception
2003: Community Needs Assessment
2004: Feasibility Study to Implement Transitional Housing for Indigenous women and children
2004-2006: Developed a model with a muti-disciplinary approach to crisis care when working with Indigenous women who are victims of violence
2007: Opened our First Office
2008: Developed the curriculum in partnership with Georgian College, Indigenous Studies for our Bridging Transition Program
2011: Developed a one year project to address trauma and violence that will assist Indigenous women overcome the devastating effects
2012: Facilitated the Kanawayhitowin project which is an Indigenous campaign to raise awareness about the signs of woman abuse in our communities
2013: We secured a capital to purchase two residential properties, implement and operate 6 transitional housing units for Indigenous women and children
2018: Developed the project Bagosenim - To Have Hope, which is a housing first case management program that assists Indigenous homeless people with housing supports
2020: Secured funding for an expanded (2nd) Indigenous Housing First Program
2024: Secured funding to develop Indigenous Outreach Services across Simcoe County
A Reflection of Our Identity
Our name was given to us by an Elder. Biminaawzogin signifies women helping, or caring for each other. The late Terry (baa) Desormeaux designed our logo.
